Imagine a dessert that captures the pure essence of summer in every creamy, luscious spoonful - our Fresh Strawberry Ice Cream is that magical treat! Forget store-bought varieties; this homemade delight will transport you to sun-drenched strawberry fields with its vibrant flavor and silky-smooth texture. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply treat yourself to a luxurious dessert, this recipe promises to be your new go-to summer indulgence that's surprisingly simple to create.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 1/2 quarts
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Allow the strawberries to macerate (sit and release their juices) at room temperature for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Using a potato masher or fork, gently mash about half of the strawberries to release more juice while leaving some chunks for texture.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Add the macerated strawberries and their juices to the cream mixture, stirring gently to combine.
- Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill thoroughly and allow flavors to meld.
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically 20-25 minutes, until the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container, layering in any remaining strawberry pieces for added texture.
- Cover the container with plastic wrap or lid and freeze for at least 2-3 hours until firm.
- Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
Tips
- Choose the ripest, most fragrant strawberries for maximum flavor intensity. Local, in-season berries will elevate your ice cream from good to extraordinary.
- Maceration is key - letting strawberries sit with sugar helps release their natural juices and concentrates their sweetness.
- Chill your mixture thoroughly before churning to ensure a smoother, creamier texture.
- If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe by using the "no-churn" method, freezing and stirring the mixture every hour to break up ice crystals.
- For an extra luxurious touch, reserve some whole macerated strawberry pieces to fold in during the final stages of churning.
- Allow the ice cream to soften slightly before serving to achieve the perfect scoopable consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 100mg
